A key figure in the Wike-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction has accused Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde of exacerbating the party’s internal crisis. Timothy Osadolor, the PDP’s Deputy National Youth Leader, claims Makinde’s alleged 2027 presidential ambition is at the root of current tensions.

Speaking ahead of the contentious national convention in Ibadan, Osadolor warned that proceeding without addressing grievances would further fracture Nigeria’s main opposition party. He dismissed the planned convention as “an early Christmas party” organized by Makinde rather than a legitimate PDP event.

“Governor Makinde should shelve his presidential ambition and join efforts to rebuild the PDP,” Osadolor stated. He questioned the logic of promoting another presidential candidate from the South-West region when the party seeks to replace the current president from that zone.

The factional leader cited Justice James Omotosho’s court ruling mandating internal reconciliation before any convention. He argued that ignoring this directive shows arrogance and erodes public trust in the party’s ability to govern.

Regarding elder statesman Bode George’s recent comments, Osadolor urged the octogenarian to remain neutral. “As a Board of Trustees member, he should be the party’s conscience, not take sides in this division,” he emphasized.

Osadolor cautioned that failure to resolve the crisis could extend the tenure of the current National Working Committee. He maintained that Abdulrahman Mohammed’s leadership remains focused on rescuing the party from “saboteurs consumed by ambition.”

The PDP chieftain also defended Nyesom Wike against allegations of intentionally weakening the PDP for President Tinubu’s benefit. “When you want to kill a dog, you first give it a bad name,” Osadolor countered, noting Wike isn’t organizing conventions or suspending party leaders.